Despite early enthusiasm around the strategy, Rare Diseases Ireland says families have yet to see meaningful change. About one in 17 people in Ireland live with a rare disease. The survey of 177 people found that most respondents were pessimistic about whether the National Rare Disease Strategy 2025–2030 would improve their lives. Rare Diseases Ireland chief executive Vicky McGrath said she was “deeply concerned” by the findings. Saturday is Rare Disease Day with events taking place around the country this weekend.

Source: Irish Examiner February 28, 2026 10:30 UTC